Backpacking Europe – The Best Hostels in Amsterdam

Are you looking for the best hostels in Amsterdam? We’ve got you covered!

Amsterdam is bustling with visitors these days making it the 5th most visited city in Europe. Lured by picturesque canals, numerous cafes (serving tea, coffee and other herbal remedies), the Red Light District, and the promise of a vibrant nightlife the city has never been more popular.

It’s no surprise that backpackers and other travelers flock from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. It’s also no surprise that the city isn’t exactly the most budget friendly destination on the planet. If you aren’t careful you can blow a whole week’s budget on a couple of nights in a hotel. Thus, if you want to save money while visiting Amsterdam, or as you backpack around Europe, you will want to make use of hostels.

Finding a fantastic and affordable hostel in Amsterdam isn’t a pipe dream. You CAN find reasonably priced budget accommodations in Amsterdam. There are plenty of options to choose from.

Almost TOO many, in fact. Narrowing the choice down to find the best of the best hostels in Amsterdam can be a time consuming task. So, we did all the research for you.

The hostels listed below reflect the cream of the crop, and are without a doubt among the top hotels in Amsterdam.

We don’t claim to have included every single amazing hostel in Amsterdam, since the city is brimming with places for budget travelers and backpackers to stay, but we think we got pretty close. We have put together this list based on what we personally expect out of a great hostel. Clean rooms, comfortable dorm beds with power outlets, secure luggage storage, friendly atmosphere that encourages interaction (but doesn’t force it), and a communal kitchen are all super important aspects in our eyes, and we prioritize them when suggesting a place to stay. These factors all contribute towards a great hostel, and all can be found in the best hostels in Amsterdam.

You’re welcome, and safe travels guys!

The Best Hostels in Amsterdam

Cocomama

Cocomama is an award winning hostel that makes guests feel right at home with its huge garden, uber friendly staff, and resident cat. The hostel is located in a beautiful building, which was once Amsterdam’s most famous brothel, and each room (including double or family privates; 2, 4, or 6 bed dorms) is decorated in a different Dutch theme. Beds are comfy and dorms come with lockers, power outlets, and showers.

Lockers in the rooms are free, but guests bring their own padlocks to personally lock these at their own expense.
We also provide extra security coin operated lockers but they are not free (cheap though, 40cents and hour or €2 a day), so not sure if this is 100% accurate.
We also offer a free safe at reception for valuables.

The hostel has a fully equipped kitchen and even a movie corner. If you want to meet other guests, head to the large garden to socialize or choose from one of the many organized activities the hostel puts on.

The only drawback some guests might have about Cocomama is the location, as it is a bit outside the center. However, if you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful experience, the residential setting might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Travelers looking for a cozy place to call home away from home, will agree that Cocomama is one of the best hostels in Amsterdam.

For more information, reviews, or current pricing for Cocomama check out HostelWorld!

Best Hostels in Amsterdam – Ecomama

As far as beautiful hostels go, Ecomama is at the top of the list. But it’s not just have a pretty face! This hostel also has a good heart and goes to great lengths to treat its guests and the environment with a lot of love. In our book that makes it one of the best hostels in Amsterdam!

We only have one planet and Ecomama knows it. The hostel has a water saving system, a green roof, recycling system, and natural stone heating. It also uses recycled materials (from the bricks to decor) throughout the hostel, which not only reduces landfill rubbish but also gives the hostel a unique feel.

Ecomama is also big on encouraging a communal environment and is designed with socializing in mind. It has wide-open and large communal spaces, a teepee tent, huge kitchen, a movie lounge, and loads of organized activities. It also welcomes all travelers, regardless of whether or not they have plenty of cash to blow or are only looking for cheap places to stay in Amsterdam. Ecomama has everything from luxurious privates to 12 bed, no frills dorms, and everything in between.

If you’re looking for a hostel with good vibes where everyone is welcome, that gives back to the environment, you should strongly consider staying at Ecomama hostel!

For more information, reviews, or current pricing for Ecomama check out HostelWorld!

Best Hostels in Amsterdam – ClinkNOORD

Located in the Overhoeks district of Amsterdam, the ClinkNOORD hostel is just a (free) ferry ride away from Amsterdam’s central station. The hostel’s interior design oozes modern comfort and creativity despite being located in a building dating back to the 1920s.

Guests will feel relaxed from the moment they step foot inside the hostel and the friendly staff goes the extra mile to help make everyone’s experience in Amsterdam nothing short of fantastic. With multiple social areas, including a spacious atrium, library, cafe, and an onsite bar with live events, music, DJs, and performances, guests at ClinkNOORD will never get bored.

The hostel’s central location, cool environment, and beautiful decor, make ClinkNOORD one of the best hostels in Amsterdam!

Best Hostels in Amsterdam – Generator Amsterdam

We’re pretty big fans of the Generator hostel brand. No matter which one of their hostels you stay in, you know you’re gonna have a professional experience. This Generator is no different, and is absolutely one of the best hostels in Amsterdam.

Though the Generator Amsterdam is located a bit outside of the city center and across from Oosterpark, one of the nicest parks in the city, there are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area. The number 9 tram is also nearby which means it’s easy to get to the Central Station quickly.

This massive hostel has the capacity to host over 500 guests in private or shared rooms and the spacious design, friendly staff, and ample communal space (including an outdoor terrace, cafe, social areas, lounge, and bar) means guests will never feel uncomfortable here! Also, for those who want a DIY experience or are on a tight budget, there is an on-site self serve laundry and a kitchen.

For more information, reviews, or current pricing for the Generator Amsterdam check out HostelWorld or Booking.com!

Best Hostels in Amsterdam – Flying Pig Uptown

If you want to stay at a centrally located hostel, the Flying Pig Uptown might be the hostel for you. It’s sandwiched between the museum and fashion districts and sits right around the corner from the Van Gogh museum. The relaxing Vondelpark is also nearby, which means free musical and cultural performances on the park’s stage are just steps away. It’s also close to a number of bars and coffee shops that are popular among the local crowd.

If you like free stuff (who doesn’t?), you’ll love the Flying Pig Uptown. Breakfast, lockers (if your bring your own lock or cheap coin operated lockers), linens, walking tours, and maps are all available at no extra cost for guests. There is also a kitchen and onsite bar with has cheap beer, daily drink specials, and a smoking area.

Dorm rooms are designed with comfort in mind and most beds include a reading lights and charging points. Flying Pig even has queen-size bunks in case you want a little extra space! All of the above combine to make the Flying Pig one of the best hostels in Amsterdam.

Best Party Hostels in Amsterdam – Flying Pig Downtown

Much like its sister hostel, The Flying Pig Downtown is centrally located, offers lots of freebies, and plenty of socializing opportunities.

It’s also constantly recognized for its cleanliness, has a unique bar with cheap beer, a smoking room, and smoking terrace. You’ll enjoy free breakfast, linens, and lockers (free with your own lock or cheap coin operated ones) here too, and comfy dorm or private rooms. There is an on-site kitchen, so cooking up your own meals is easy peasy.

The hostel is located only ten minutes walk from the Central Station and near restaurants, pubs, a busy shopping street, and the Red Light District, so it’s a great option for anyone looking for a centrally located hostel in Amsterdam. And for anyone looking for the best party hostel in Amsterdam, of course.

For more information, reviews, or current pricing for Flying Pig Downtown check out HostelWorld or Booking.com!

Best Party Hostels in Amsterdam – St Christopher’s at the Winston

Last but certainly not least among our picks for the best hostels in Amsterdam is the St Christopher’s at the Winston Hostel.

The Winston is smack dab in the middle of it all! It’s steps from the Red Light District, coffee shops, Dam Square, and only a 10 minute walk from the Central Station. So, if central is what you’re after, consider the Winston.

Additionally, the award winning hostel has a bar, beer garden, and smoking area so guests can kick back, relax, and socialize throughout the day and night. Guests also enjoy a 25% discount at the bar on food and drink at the bar and 2 for 1 deals, and free continental breakfast, so keeping your budget down here is pretty easy to do.

Want to know more? Watch this video to see more about one of the best hostels in Amsterdam.

Best Hostels in Amsterdam – Hostel Van Gogh

Hostel Van Gogh is a fantastic hostel in the center of Amsterdam, just 300 meters from the cities biggest museums – Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum. Hostel Van Gogh’s ideal location in the center of the city is just one of the reasons why it’s one of the best hostels in Amsterdam.

Hostel Van Gogh offers private rooms and dorm rooms for very affordable prices. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and beautifully decorated with paintings from the Post-Impressionist master. Some of the hostel’s facilities include free luggage storage, secure locker facilities, bicycle hire and a tour/travel desk service where you can book day trips and city tours. We forgot to mention that they offer a delicious all-you-can-eat breakfast every day for just 5 euros!

If location is an important factor for you when choosing your accommodation, then you can’t go wrong with Hostel Van Gogh. Surrounded by restaurants, cafes, shops, and some of Amsterdam’s best pubs and clubs – including the world famous Paradiso – you’re within walking distance to everything you need!

Best Hostels in Amsterdam – Dutchies Hostel

Located in the West area of Amsterdam, Dutchies Hostel has a student vibe and youthful atmosphere about it, so it’s a great choice if you’re a solo traveler looking to make some friends! Dutchies Hostel is clean, secure and friendly, making it one of the best hostels in Amsterdam for travelers on a budget.

Offering mixed and female only dorms at very affordable prices, this hostel is decorated throughout with graffiti, which gives the place its unique character. There’s a bar on site serving great cocktails, and plenty of areas to socialise and chill out when you’re not off exploring Amsterdam.

You can hire bicycles from the front desk, so you can explore the city like a local. Although the hostel isn’t in the center of the city, it’s well connected by tram and metro so you can reach the center in no time at all. If you’re looking for a friendly and sociable hostel that doesn’t compromise on cleanliness and comfort, then Dutchies Hostel is one of the best in Amsterdam.

Best Hostels in Amsterdam – Stayokay Amsterdam Zeeburg

Stayokay Amsterdam Zeeburg is a modern hostel situated close to the centre of the city, which you can access by bike within 15 minutes. The hostel offers double, family and dorm rooms which are all sleek, modern and spacious and offer everything you require for a comfortable stay in historic Amsterdam.

The hostel shares its space with a cinema and theatre, and also offers a bar-brasserie, restaurant and summer terrace. So there’s plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained! Stayokay Amsterdam Zeeburg provides a delicious breakfast for a small charge, and we hear it’s very good!

You can rent bikes at the reception, and they also offer a laundry service and a playground for kids if you need to keep them entertained. The great location, friendly staff and affordable price of this hostel are just some of the reasons why it’s one of the best hostels in Amsterdam.

For more information, reviews, or current pricing for Stayokay Amsterdam Zeeburg check out HostelWorld or Booking.com!

Disclaimer – We have included a few handy little affiliate links in case any of our readers want to book accommodations. We receive a small commission for any sales made, without any additional cost to you, our dear reader.

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